Anglers are returning to many of Ireland's best known fisheries after Covid-19 restrictions were eased.
Inland Fisheries Ireland said anglers may fish in a location less than or equal to 5km from home, but most of the major tourism angling promoters say they are still closed and losing thousands of euro in daily income due to the ban on foreign travel.
Fishing on the bank is permitted at all times within the 5km limit, but anglers using boats are urged to adhere to RNLI safety guidelines.
IFI Chief Executive Ciaran Byrne said he believes angling will be a key plank in helping return tourism to rural areas.
Speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, he said about 2% of the country is covered in water, with up to 12,000 lakes and 70,000km of water ways, which mean a significant number of people live near a lake or river.
He said a number of guidelines remain in place for anglers, despite the solitary nature of the sport, adding people can fish in isolation within 5km of their homes, while ensuring social distance is maintained.
Any angling activity that involves congregating, he said, should not take place.
Mr Byrne angling is good for mental health and is a gentle exercise that can be enjoyed by young and old.
The National Coarse Fishing Federation, meanwhile, said it hopes to to see a coordinated approach, North and South, "to opening up our sport" in the coming months.
Updated guidelines where travel to fish is permitted:
Fishing is permitted within 5km of your home
Maintain social distancing at all times, especially at car parks, access points and launch sites.
Anglers* should not share transport e.g. car/van when travelling to fish.
Limit contact with other anglers and providers.
Permit/licence sales online where possible
Maximum 2 persons* in small boat for inland/inshore fishing
Angling businesses may only open once classified as an essential service and should only operate if they can provide online/contactless services.
Charter fishing or guided fishing may only operate where skippers/guides can guarantee compliance with social distancing measures.
Recommend no competition fishing
Facilities where anglers could gather to remain closed lunch huts, etc.
Where such facilities at 10 above are essential fishery should remain closed.
Recommend anglers/guides/skippers to carry hand sanitiser and to use it after touching surfaces such as gates, stiles, pier railings, ladders, etc.
* Assumed to be individuals from different households.
